Stop gingivitis and periodontitis in their tracks with deep cleaning, scaling and personalised periodontal care.


Gum disease is a very serious issue and prompt action is advised in order to avoid the degradation of your oral health. Here at Tavistock, our Periodontist (gum dentist) who specialises in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease can work with you in order to combat gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis

Periodontal treatment covers the procedures used to treat and manage gum disease - from deep cleaning in the earlier stages through to surgical treatment for more advanced cases. At Tavistock Dental, this is led by Dr Kruti Desai, our periodontist, who has completed three additional years of specialist training beyond general dentistry and is registered on the GDC specialist register.
For most patients, treatment begins with a deep cleaning process called scaling and root planing, removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line where brushing alone can't reach. Where disease is more advanced, surgical options may be recommended. Dr Desai will talk you through everything honestly before anything is agreed.

I recently went in for a filling after cracking mine, and from the moment I booked my appointment with Rosa and Jo, I knew I’d made the right choice. They were warm, friendly, and welcoming. Like most people, I was a bit apprehensive about visiting the dentist, but Dr. Patel and hygienist Alex made the whole experience smooth, comfortable, and completely painless. I can’t recommend this dental clinic enough!
Gum disease treatment at Tavistock Dental is led by Dr Kruti Desai, our periodontist, who has completed advanced specialist training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.



What is gum disease?
It is a process where the bone and gum supporting the teeth shrink away causing teeth to loosen and eventually be lost. It can be preventable and managed if treated early. Signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath and loose teeth. There is increasing research into links between gum disease, heart disease, diabetes, strokes, poor pregnancy outcomes and even dementia. There is increasing evidence that shows having healthy teeth and gums can help improve your general health.
What happens if I don’t treat the gum disease?
Gum disease will not improve by itself unfortunately. You won’t notice gum disease worsening as it rarely causes pain. If left alone, your teeth will loosen and your gums will feel sore. Eventually your teeth will come out. It is really important to seek advice early so that you keep as much of your supporting bone and gums.
Is mouthwash useful to treat gum disease?
Used by itself, mouthwash will not effectively treat gum disease. It is best to consult with your dentist on what options are available to you in treating the gum disease.
Do I have to see a gum specialist to treat my gum disease?
The first port of call should be to see your dentist who can identify gum disease. They will advise you on whether you should see the gum specialist. Like most things in life, some people are better at some things than other people. A gum specialist is a person who has carried out a further three years of training in treating gum disease than your general dentist. They then have to pass a rigorous examination before they are accepted onto the specialist register kept by the General Dental Council. Gum specialists tend to have better success rates due to more expertise and better equipment used to treat patients. If you want to have the best possible outcome, the gum specialist is the person to see. It is for this reason many general dentists refer patients to gum specialists to have gum disease treatment carried out. Gum specialists can work with general dentists and hygienists.